1. The pluralistic presentation of Appalachian folk remedies
In literature, Motheater is set in the Appalachian Mountains and showcases the mystical folk magic. The book’s witch, Motheater, adds a magical touch to the story by using natural remedies and a system of work based on folk Christianity to achieve miracles. This magic is not typical neighbor magic, but explores the question of “what if God acted like a man” with human weakness, fear, and anger.
Hiking has also become a form of spiritual healing. Jesse Cody chose to hike the Appalachian Trail while battling depression and suicidal tendencies. The experience had a profound impact on him, and he raised money through hiking, mental health awareness, and the fight against depression. Nature became a place for him to escape from mental chaos, and he also encouraged people to face their demons through various activities or to find peace in nature.
Appalachian folk remedies are also embodied in herbal treatments. In Appalachian folk medicine, lobelia is used as an “asthma agent” and contains ingredients such as lobelin, which can treat respiratory failure, dilute mucus, relieve congestion, relax the airways, and make breathing easier. In addition, plants such as oregano, chaparal, and eucalyptus have been used to promote lung health, treat infections, and even repair lung damage.
These different areas demonstrate the diversity and richness of Appalachian folk remedies. Whether it’s mystical magic, hiking, or herbal healing, it reflects people’s reliance on nature and tradition, as well as their quest for health and spiritual healing.
2. Herbal Remedies: Natural Guardians of Lung Health
(1) The miraculous effects of four strange plants
Oregano contains carvacrol and rosmarinic acid, which are natural decongestants and histamine reducing agents that have a positive effect on the respiratory tract and improve airflow in the nasal passages, as well as fight pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Native to the southwestern part of the Americas, Chaparral contains a powerful natural antioxidant, NDGA, which inhibits cancer cell energy production, promotes expectorant and improves respiratory diseases. Native to Australia, eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and cough syrup, relieving cough, congestion, soothing sinus passages and boosting immunity. Lobelia is used as an “asthma agent” in Appalachia, containing ingredients such as lobelin, which treats respiratory failure, dilutes mucus, relieves congestion, and relaxes the airways.
(2) The modern value of ancient therapies
These herbs have important applications and significance in modern medicine. On the one hand, they provide new ideas and directions for modern medical research. For example, the medicinal value of carvacrol and rosmarinic acid in oregano has prompted scientists to further study their mechanisms of action in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, promising to develop more effective drugs. On the other hand, these ancient remedies also influence people’s perception of health. In modern society, there is a growing focus on natural remedies and traditional medicine, recognizing the mildness and sustainability of herbal medicine. These herbal remedies are a reminder that nature is rich in treasures that can provide powerful support for our health. At the same time, it also prompts people to pay more attention to preventive medicine, improve their own immunity and prevent the occurrence of diseases by adjusting their diet, increasing exercise, and using herbal medicines. In conclusion, the ancient herbal remedies of the Appalachian region still have great value and significance in modern society.
3. Nashville Qi: The unique charm of Chinese medicine in the heartland of United States
(1) Nashville’s TCM culture
Nashville, a city in the southern United States, is both a center of country music and a center of Southern Christian culture. However, in this land full of unique cultural atmosphere, TCM presents a unique juxtaposition. In Nashville, murals of country music sit next to signs at the Five Elements Acupuncture Clinic, a reminder of the fusion of two different cultures.
TCM practitioners work silently on the land of Nashville. They come from all over the world with a passion and dedication to Chinese medicine. The composition of these practitioners is rich and diverse, some are experienced old Chinese medicine practitioners, and some are young scholars who are full of curiosity and exploration of Chinese medicine. They chose to practice in Nashville because they were attracted by the diverse culture and perhaps because they saw the potential of Chinese medicine here.